# Ethanoic acid is a carboxylic acid found in vinegar. Describe the reaction of ethanoic acid with sodium carbonate solution, and explain why ethanoic acid is described as a weak acid.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620) — 11.7 Carboxylic acids · Describe and Explain · 4 marks

> Ethanoic acid, CH₃COOH, is a carboxylic acid. It reacts with sodium carbonate solution and only partially dissociates in aqueous solution.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Ethanoic acid reacts with sodium carbonate to produce a salt (sodium ethanoate)
2. Carbon dioxide gas is produced / effervescence / bubbling observed
3. Water is also produced in the reaction
4. Ethanoic acid is a weak acid because it only partially dissociates / ionises in aqueous solution

## Key terms

- [carboxylic acid](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/carboxylic-acid)
- [weak acid](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/weak-acid)
- [sodium carbonate](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/sodium-carbonate)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe and Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/ethanoic-acid-is-a-carboxylic-acid-193f9ba4) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.